Funeral services for Malcolm Gene Slade, age 67, of Greenville, MS will be at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Greenville. There will be a visitation from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the church. He passed away unexpectedly on September 18, 2026. He will be remembered for his love of music, his generous heart, his faithful service to others, and his deep devotion to his family. Arrangements are under the direction of Boone Funeral Home, Greenville.
Malcolm began playing the piano and organ at the age of eight. His love and passion for music became a lifelong gift that he generously shared with others. Throughout the years, he played the organ for several congregations, including Second Baptist Church in Greenville, Mississippi, where he played for many years, Emmanuel Baptist Church, and, most recently, Leland Presbyterian Church. He was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church.
Malcolm worked as a funeral director for many years, a profession that reflected his compassion and willingness to serve others during some of life’s most difficult moments. He also faithfully volunteered each week at Sacred Space and the Food Pantry at Ephesus Seventh-day Adventist Church. Malcolm had a special love for plants and flowers, especially orchids, which he carefully grew himself. Each year, he made sure his mother received an orchid corsage that he had grown for her—a special expression of his love and thoughtfulness.
Above all, Malcolm treasured his family, especially his grandchildren, who lovingly called him Papaw. Being their Papaw brought him tremendous joy, and he loved making special memories with them. This past summer, he took all four of his grandchildren to Orlando, where they enjoyed visits to SeaWorld and Disney and spent time together at the beach. It was a special trip filled with memories they will cherish forever. His grandchildren will always remember the love, laughter, and time he shared with them.
He is survived by his wife, Anita Slade; his daughters, Ashley Navarro and her husband, Frank, of Greenville, Mississippi, and Amber Lewis and her husband, Morgan, of Mantee, Mississippi; his four grandchildren, Chyann, Taylor, Mackenzie, and Gene; his brother, Guy Slade and his wife, Melissa, of Senatobia, Mississippi; his sister, Laura Rawson and her husband, Lloyd, of Loganville, Georgia; and many nieces and nephews.
Malcolm was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer Gene Slade and Ruby Slade of Greenville, Mississippi; his sister, Wanda Elaine Slade; his maternal grandparents, Virgil Swindle and Lexie Swindle of Greenville, Mississippi; and his paternal grandparents, Gary and Thelma Slade of Purvis, Mississippi.
Malcolm leaves behind a beautiful legacy of music, kindness, compassion, and service. His generous spirit and loving heart touched the lives of many, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
The family requests in lieu of flowers for memorials to be sent to Sacred Spaces.